(ARA) – When shopping for a holiday gift for a loved one, it can be daunting to think the gift might not be perfect. An unwanted sweater or pants that don’t fit mean you’ve gifted your loved one with a trip to the mall and a wait in the returns line.
Nearly 10 percent of gifts given during the 2009 holiday season were returned to stores for cash or store credit, according to the National Retail Federation (NRF). More than 16 percent of these returns were without a receipt. This holiday season, give your friends and family gifts they’ll be sure to love – and keep:
* Gift cards: You can find a gift card for just about anything these days, from retail shops to restaurants, even to spas and grocery stores. Listen to your loved ones’ needs and buy him or her gift cards to match. If your friends recently bought a puppy, buy them a gift card to their local pet supply store so they can stock up on treats or buy a new leash. The most purchased gift card increment is $25.
* Buy off the registry: A sure fire way to get them what they want is to buy off a registry or wish list. If you are buying a holiday gift for people who are getting married or having a baby, chances are they’ve registered for gifts at stores or online. You can search for their names on the Internet and pull up their registries to get ideas on what they really need and want.
* Pitch in for a big ticket item: If you know a child who’s mentioned wanting a gift that is out of your price range, join forces with a mutual friend (or several friends) to split the total cost. A nice new bike typically costs around $400, but if you rally seven other friends or family members to each pitch in $50 for the gift, you can easily afford that hot new bike they’re pining for.
* Customize their look: Apparel is consistently the most popular gift given during the holiday season, according to the NRF. Instead of choosing a sweater you’re not sure your mother will like, buy her a pair of fashionable jeans you know she’ll love and wear all year. The new Custom Fit Collection of Signature by Levi Strauss & Co. jeans feature a built-in tummy control panel and shaping technology that will fit and flatter her so perfectly it will feel like the jeans were custom-made for her body. New Signature by Levi Strauss & Co. jeans are available at Kmart stores for less than $25.
The key to finding the perfect holiday gift is to listen to your friends and family’s needs and desires. Jot down notes throughout the year of things they’ve mentioned wanting in passing. Paying close attention to them will make them feel so special when you give them a gift – which is what everyone truly wants no matter the season.
